1 MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL - SPECIAL MEETING (WORKSHOP)
CITY OF BANNING, CALIFORNIA
May 27, 2025 Council Chambers
4:00 p.m. 99 E. Ramsey Street
In Chambers Banning, CA 92220
The following information comprises the minutes for the special meeting of the Banning City Council, a joint meeting of the City Council and Banning Utility Authority, and the Banning City Council sitting in its capacity as the Banning Successor Agency Board.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: Council Member Cynthia Barrington Mayor Sheri Flynn
Council Member Leroy Miller
Mayor Pro Tem Richard Royce
Council Member Colleen Wallace
COUNCIL MEMBERS ABSENT: None
OTHERS PRESENT: John O. Pinkney, City Attorney
Robert Fisher, Acting City Manager
Vickie Sellers, City Clerk
Caroline Patton, Administrative City Clerk
1. CALL TO ORDER – 5:13 P.M.
2. PUBLIC COMMENTS - Agenda Items Only
No public comments
3. WORKSHOP
3.1 Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert - CDMOD Update Cindy Burreson, CEO, provided a brief history, noting the museum's establishment almost three decades ago by teachers emphasizing hands-on learning. The mission focuses on interactive learning for kids and families.
• The museum stands out due to its high visitor count (85,000 annually), multi-generational appeal, and unique location within a 90-mile radius.
• The main gallery, spanning 8,500 square feet, was divided into six sections with aesthetic improvements.
• Closed during the pandemic in 2020, the museum underwent a reimagination, including exhibit updates
• Building two features refurbished fan favorites like a farmer's market and a world cuisine restaurant to introduce different cultures.
2 • A third building is planned for renovation into a teen space with 3D printing, laser cutting, and life skills classes.
• The museum participates in Museums for All, offering reduced admission to EBT cardholders. It serves as an economic driver for local hotels and prioritizes accessibility through automatic doors and materials in English and Spanish.
• The museum is a certified autism center, providing sensory bags and guides. Special events like the Gabby's Dollhouse event drew significant attendance. • The museum acts as a "second responder" during crises, offering a safe space for families. A kids' music festival was organized for L.A. fire evacuees. A fundraiser is scheduled in partnership with Hansen House to support families facing crises.
• The CEO requested consideration for budget allocation to subsidize the EBT program and welcomed support through board membership or volunteering.
Council Questions
• The City Council inquired about the museum's address (71701 Gerald Ford Drive, Rancho Mirage) and operating hours (10 AM to 5 PM every day except Sunday). Science nights are being planned
4. ADJOURNMENT – 5:26 p.m.
Prepared by: Amanda Morgan, Program Coordinator
Reviewed and submitted by:
Sandra Calderon, Deputy City Clerk.
These minutes have been prepared as Summary Minutes in accordance with City Council Resolution 2025-22 and Government Code Sections 36814, 40801, and 54953(c)(2).
The entire discussion of this meeting may be viewed here:
https://banningca.granicus.com/player/clip/206?view_id=1&redirect=true